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8 pages, 4923 KiB  
Proceeding Paper
A Hardware Measurement Platform for Quantum Current Sensors
by Frederik Hoffmann, Ann-Sophie Bülter, Ludwig Horsthemke, Dennis Stiegekötter, Jens Pogorzelski, Markus Gregor and Peter Glösekötter
Eng. Proc. 2025, 101(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/engproc2025101011 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
A concept towards current measurement in low and medium voltage power distribution networks is presented. The concentric magnetic field around the current-carrying conductor should be measured using a nitrogen-vacancy quantum magnetic field sensor. A bottleneck in current measurement systems is the readout electronics, [...] Read more.
A concept towards current measurement in low and medium voltage power distribution networks is presented. The concentric magnetic field around the current-carrying conductor should be measured using a nitrogen-vacancy quantum magnetic field sensor. A bottleneck in current measurement systems is the readout electronics, which are usually based on optically detected magnetic resonance (ODMR). The idea is to have a hardware that tracks up to four resonances simultaneously for the detection of the three-axis magnetic field components and the temperature. Normally, expensive scientific instruments are used for the measurement setup. In this work, we present an electronic device that is based on a Zynq 7010 FPGA (Red Pitaya) with an add-on board, which has been developed to control the excitation laser, the generation of the microwaves, and interfacing the photodiode, and which provides additional fast digital outputs. The T1 measurement was chosen to demonstrate the ability to read out the spin of the system. Full article
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26 pages, 20835 KiB  
Article
Reverse Mortgages and Pension Sustainability: An Agent-Based and Actuarial Approach
by Francesco Rania
Risks 2025, 13(8), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/risks13080147 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Population aging poses significant challenges to the sustainability of pension systems. This study presents an integrated methodological approach that uniquely combines actuarial life-cycle modeling with agent-based simulation to assess the potential of Reverse Mortgage Loans (RMLs) as a dual lever for enhancing retiree [...] Read more.
Population aging poses significant challenges to the sustainability of pension systems. This study presents an integrated methodological approach that uniquely combines actuarial life-cycle modeling with agent-based simulation to assess the potential of Reverse Mortgage Loans (RMLs) as a dual lever for enhancing retiree welfare and supporting pension system resilience under demographic and financial uncertainty. We explore Reverse Mortgage Loans (RMLs) as a potential financial instrument to support retirees while alleviating pressure on public pensions. Unlike prior research that treats individual decisions or policy outcomes in isolation, our hybrid model explicitly captures feedback loops between household-level behavior and system-wide financial stability. To test our hypothesis that RMLs can improve individual consumption outcomes and bolster systemic solvency, we develop a hybrid model combining actuarial techniques and agent-based simulations, incorporating stochastic housing prices, longevity risk, regulatory capital requirements, and demographic shifts. This dual-framework enables a structured investigation of how micro-level financial decisions propagate through market dynamics, influencing solvency, pricing, and adoption trends. Our central hypothesis is that reverse mortgages, when actuarially calibrated and macroprudentially regulated, enhance individual financial well-being while preserving long-run solvency at the system level. Simulation results indicate that RMLs can improve consumption smoothing, raise expected utility for retirees, and contribute to long-term fiscal sustainability. Moreover, we introduce a dynamic regulatory mechanism that adjusts capital buffers based on evolving market and demographic conditions, enhancing system resilience. Our simulation design supports multi-scenario testing of financial robustness and policy outcomes, providing a transparent tool for stress-testing RML adoption at scale. These findings suggest that, when well-regulated, RMLs can serve as a viable supplement to traditional retirement financing. Rather than offering prescriptive guidance, this framework provides insights to policymakers, financial institutions, and regulators seeking to integrate RMLs into broader pension strategies. Full article
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34 pages, 4933 KiB  
Review
Current Progress in and Future Visions of Key Technologies of UAV-Borne Multi-Modal Geophysical Exploration for Mineral Exploration: A Scoping Review
by Xin Wu, Guo-Qiang Xue, Yan-Bo Wang and Song Cui
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(15), 2689; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17152689 - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
For mineral exploration, an increasing number of geophysical instruments have adopted unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as their carrier platforms. The effective fusion of multi-modal geophysical information will be conducive to further enhancing the reliability of exploration results. However, the integration degree of UAVs [...] Read more.
For mineral exploration, an increasing number of geophysical instruments have adopted unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as their carrier platforms. The effective fusion of multi-modal geophysical information will be conducive to further enhancing the reliability of exploration results. However, the integration degree of UAVs and geophysical equipment is still low, and the advantages of UAVs as robots have not been fully exploited. In addition, the existing fusion methods are still difficult to use to establish the spatial distribution model of ore-bearing rock. Therefore, we reviewed the development status of UAVs and the geophysical instruments. We believe that only by integrating the system, designing the observation plan in accordance with the requirements of the fusion method, and treating the hardware part as an external extension of the algorithm, can high-matching data be provided for fusion. Subsequently, we analyzed the progress of the fusion methods, leading us to believe that the cross-dimensional and cross-abstract-level issues are major challenges in the algorithm aspect. Meanwhile, the fusion should be carried out simultaneously with the generation of the ore-bearing rock model, that is, to establish an integrated system of fusion and generation. It is hoped that this research can promote the development of UAV-borne multi-modal observation technology. Full article
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16 pages, 1919 KiB  
Article
CampyTube: Seamless Integration of a Molecular Test and Lateral Flow Detection of Campylobacter in a Single Vial
by Natalia Sandetskaya, Andreas Kölsch, Kai Mattern, Vanessa Vater, Dirk Kuhlmeier and Florian Priller
Biosensors 2025, 15(8), 497; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15080497 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 78
Abstract
Background: The efficient control of hygiene and Campylobacter’s contamination status at various steps of poultry meat production is essential for the prevention of Campylobacter transmission to humans. Microbiological methods are laborious and time-consuming, and molecular methods of detection are often too skill- [...] Read more.
Background: The efficient control of hygiene and Campylobacter’s contamination status at various steps of poultry meat production is essential for the prevention of Campylobacter transmission to humans. Microbiological methods are laborious and time-consuming, and molecular methods of detection are often too skill- and infrastructure-demanding. Methods: We have developed CampyTube, a simple and user-friendly format for the integration of isothermal DNA amplification with embedded instrument-free detection on a miniaturized lateral flow test in a single vial. All test components, from the dry amplification reagents to the mini lateral flow tests, are incorporated into a standard single vial, which is closed after the addition of the liquid sample and never has to be opened again. This ensures the absolute prevention of carry-over contamination and makes the system very safe and simple to use in point-of-need settings. Results: As few as 60 Campylobacter genome copies per reaction could be successfully detected with CampyTube. We have primarily developed and evaluated CampyTube for the detection of Campylobacter in chicken neck skin samples and could reach 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity in the samples exceeding the regulatory limit of 1000 CFU/g confirmed microbiologically, while the sensitivity in all samples that tested positive using qPCR (1.4 × 102–2.5 × 106 genome copies/g) was 71.1%. We discuss the impact of sample preparation on CampyTube performance and suggest further options for test optimization. Conclusions: CampyTube is a highly versatile and efficient, yet simple, affordable, and material-saving system that can be adapted for other targets and sample types. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosensors for Monitoring and Diagnostics)
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27 pages, 5743 KiB  
Article
In-Field Load Acquisitions on a Variable Chamber Round Baler Using Instrumented Hub Carriers and a Dynamometric Towing Pin
by Filippo Coppola, Andrea Ruffin and Giovanni Meneghetti
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8579; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158579 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 90
Abstract
In this work, the load spectra acting in the vertical direction on the hub carriers and in the horizontal longitudinal direction on the drawbar of a trailed variable chamber round baler were evaluated. To this end, each hub carrier was instrumented with appropriately [...] Read more.
In this work, the load spectra acting in the vertical direction on the hub carriers and in the horizontal longitudinal direction on the drawbar of a trailed variable chamber round baler were evaluated. To this end, each hub carrier was instrumented with appropriately calibrated strain gauge bridges. Similarly, the baler was equipped with a dynamometric towing pin, instrumented with strain gauge sensors and calibrated in the laboratory, which replaced the original pin connecting the baler and the tractor during the in-field load acquisitions. In both cases, the calibration tests returned the relationship between applied forces and output signals of the strain gauge bridges. Multiple in-field load acquisitions were carried out under typical maneuvers and operating conditions. The synchronous acquisition of a video via an onboard camera and Global Positioning System (GPS) signal allowed to observe the behaviour of the baler in correspondence of particular trends of the vertical and horizontal loads and to point out the most demanding maneuver in view of the fatigue resistance of the baler. Finally, through the application of a rainflow cycle counting algorithm according to ASTM E1049-85, the load spectrum for each maneuver was derived. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mechanical Engineering)
25 pages, 2717 KiB  
Article
A Hybrid Model for Land Value Capture in Sustainable Urban Land Management: The Case of Türkiye
by Nida Celik Simsek, Bura Adem Atasoy and Semih Uzun
Land 2025, 14(8), 1570; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081570 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 226
Abstract
Like in many countries, the transfer of increased land value created by public actions without landowner contributions back to the public is under debate in Türkiye. Although various Land Value Capture (LVC) mechanisms are employed worldwide to finance infrastructure investments, no comprehensive system [...] Read more.
Like in many countries, the transfer of increased land value created by public actions without landowner contributions back to the public is under debate in Türkiye. Although various Land Value Capture (LVC) mechanisms are employed worldwide to finance infrastructure investments, no comprehensive system has been established in Türkiye for this purpose. In this study, an improved LVC model that integrates land value and development rights is proposed. This model, termed Hybrid Land Readjustment (hLR), is designed to ensure that land value increases triggered by public investments are returned to the public. To this end, existing Turkish value capture instruments with potential are examined. Under the proposed hLR framework, equal basic development rights are granted to cadastral parcels, parcel and building-block value maps are utilized, basic rights are adjusted according to land-value changes, and a portion of additional development rights is transferred to the public. A practical application scenario is provided to illustrate the model’s operation. The system is configured for seamless integration into Türkiye’s existing legal and planning framework, offering a sustainable mechanism for financing infrastructure and implementing zoning plans. Full article
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40 pages, 2173 KiB  
Review
Bridging Genes and Sensory Characteristics in Legumes: Multi-Omics for Sensory Trait Improvement
by Niharika Sharma, Soumi Paul Mukhopadhyay, Dhanyakumar Onkarappa, Kalenahalli Yogendra and Vishal Ratanpaul
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1849; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081849 - 31 Jul 2025
Viewed by 542
Abstract
Legumes are vital sources of protein, dietary fibre and nutrients, making them crucial for global food security and sustainable agriculture. However, their widespread acceptance and consumption are often limited by undesirable sensory characteristics, such as “a beany flavour”, bitterness or variable textures. Addressing [...] Read more.
Legumes are vital sources of protein, dietary fibre and nutrients, making them crucial for global food security and sustainable agriculture. However, their widespread acceptance and consumption are often limited by undesirable sensory characteristics, such as “a beany flavour”, bitterness or variable textures. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms governing appearance, aroma, taste, flavour, texture and palatability in legumes, aiming to enhance their sensory appeal. This review highlights the transformative power of multi-omics approaches in dissecting these intricate biological pathways and facilitating the targeted enhancement of legume sensory qualities. By integrating data from genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, the genetic and biochemical networks that directly dictate sensory perception can be comprehensively unveiled. The insights gained from these integrated multi-omics studies are proving instrumental in developing strategies for sensory enhancement. They enable the identification of key biomarkers for desirable traits, facilitating more efficient marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic selection (GS) in breeding programs. Furthermore, a molecular understanding of sensory pathways opens avenues for precise gene editing (e.g., using CRISPR-Cas9) to modify specific genes, reduce off-flavour compounds or optimise texture. Beyond genetic improvements, multi-omics data also inform the optimisation of post-harvest handling and processing methods (e.g., germination and fermentation) to enhance desirable sensory profiles and mitigate undesirable ones. This holistic approach, spanning from the genetic blueprint to the final sensory experience, will accelerate the development of new legume cultivars and products with enhanced palatability, thereby fostering increased consumption and ultimately contributing to healthier diets and more resilient food systems worldwide. Full article
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22 pages, 2677 KiB  
Article
Prevalence of Temporomandibular Disorder Symptoms Among Dental Students at the Faculty of Dental Medicine in Iași: A Self-Reported Study Based on DC/TMD Criteria
by Eugenia Larisa Tarevici, Oana Tanculescu, Alina Mihaela Apostu, Sorina Mihaela Solomon, Alice-Teodora Rotaru-Costin, Adrian Doloca, Petronela Bodnar, Vlad Stefan Proca, Alice-Arina Ciocan-Pendefunda, Monica Tatarciuc, Valeriu Fala and Marina Cristina Iuliana Iordache
Diagnostics 2025, 15(15), 1908; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15151908 - 30 Jul 2025
Viewed by 200
Abstract
Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) encompass a heterogeneous group of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masticatory system. Due to academic stress and parafunctional habits, dental students may be particularly vulnerable to TMD. Objective: To determine the prevalence of TMD symptoms [...] Read more.
Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) encompass a heterogeneous group of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masticatory system. Due to academic stress and parafunctional habits, dental students may be particularly vulnerable to TMD. Objective: To determine the prevalence of TMD symptoms and their psychosocial and functional correlates among students at the Faculty of Dental Medicine, UMPh Iasi, Romania, using the diagnostic criteria for TMD (DC/TMD) self-report axis and axis II instruments. Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, 356 volunteer students (66.0% female; mean age, 22.9 ± 3.6 years) out of a total population of 1874 completed an online DC/TMD–based questionnaire. Axis I assessed orofacial pain, joint noises, and mandibular locking. Axis II instruments included the Graded Chronic Pain Scale (GCPS), Jaw Functional Limitation Scale (JFLS-20), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and Oral Behaviors Checklist (OBC). Descriptive statistics summarized frequencies, means, and standard deviations; χ2 tests and t-tests compared subgroups by sex; Pearson correlations explored relationships among continuous measures (α = 0.05). Results: A total of 5% of respondents reported orofacial pain in the past 30 days; 41.6% observed TMJ noises; 19.7% experienced locking episodes. Mean JFLS score was 28.3 ± 30.5, with 4.8% scoring > 80 (severe limitation). Mean PHQ-9 was 5.96 ± 5.37 (mild depression); 15.5% scored ≥ 10. Mean GAD-7 was 5.20 ± 4.95 (mild anxiety); 16.0% scored ≥ 10. Mean OBC score was 12.3 ± 8.5; 30.1% scored ≥ 16, indicating frequent parafunctional habits. Symptom prevalence was similar by sex, except temporal headache (43.4% females vs. 24.3% males; p = 0.0008). Females reported higher mean scores for pain intensity (2.09 vs. 1.55; p = 0.0013), JFLS (32.5 vs. 18.0; p < 0.001), PHQ-9 (6.43 vs. 5.16; p = 0.048), and OBC (13.9 vs. 9.7; p = 0.0014). Strong correlation was observed between PHQ-9 and GAD-7 (r = 0.74; p < 0.001); moderate correlations were observed between pain intensity and PHQ-9 (r = 0.31) or GAD-7 (r = 0.30), between JFLS and pain intensity (r = 0.33), and between OBC and PHQ-9 (r = 0.39) (all p < 0.001). Conclusions: Nearly half of dental students reported TMD symptoms, with appreciable functional limitation and psychosocial impact. Parafunctional behaviors and psychological distress were significantly associated with pain and dysfunction. These findings underscore the need for early screening, stress-management interventions, and interdisciplinary care strategies in the dental student population. Full article
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10 pages, 390 KiB  
Article
Art Therapy and Its Impact on Mood and Emotional States in Pediatric Hematology Oncology Units: Translation and Validation of the Italian Version of the Arts Observational Scale (ArtsObS)
by Marianna Avola, Enrica Garibaldi, Milena La Spina, Andrea Di Cataldo, Giovanna Russo, Luca Lo Nigro, Maria Montanaro, Dorella Scarponi, Angela Militello, Clara Raciti, Federica Maio, Antonella Agodi, Martina Barchitta, Paola Adamo, Soani Duca, Davide Massidda, Momcilo Jankovic, Giulia Zucchetti and Cinzia Favara Scacco
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1851; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151851 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 241
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Art therapy is a psychotherapeutic technique that involves the creation of tangible visual arts and represents a coping strategy to support children with cancer. Evaluating the effects of such activities on children with cancer is essential for providing evidence of the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Art therapy is a psychotherapeutic technique that involves the creation of tangible visual arts and represents a coping strategy to support children with cancer. Evaluating the effects of such activities on children with cancer is essential for providing evidence of the value that creativity holds within healthcare systems. A dedicated tool for assessing the creative process is the Arts Observational Scale (ArtsObS), focusing on mood and emotional states as key indicators of psychosocial well-being. This study aims to validate a translated version of the ArtsObS in the Italian language. Methods: The translation process followed recommendations for translation and cultural adaptation. The distribution properties of the scores, internal consistency, sensitivity to change, reliability, and convergent validity were assessed through observations conducted by two different evaluators. Results: The ArtsObS in its Italian adaptation is proven to be an adequate tool for capturing changes following an intervention, with good internal consistency and low sensitivity to differences between operators. The analysis supports the reliability of the ArtsObS across different observers. Conclusions: The Italian ArtsObS is a valid and reliable instrument for evaluating the impact of art therapy on pediatric patients’ mood and emotional states. It provides a standardized tool for clinical and research settings to assess creative interventions in pediatric oncology. Full article
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19 pages, 717 KiB  
Article
Advancing Nuclear Energy Governance Through Strategic Pathways for Q-NPT Adoption
by Hassan Qudrat-Ullah
Energies 2025, 18(15), 4040; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18154040 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 177
Abstract
This paper proposes a strategic framework to enhance nuclear energy governance by advancing the Qudrat-Ullah Nuclear Peace and Trust (Q-NPT) framework. Designed to complement existing treaties such as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, Q-NPT integrates principles [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a strategic framework to enhance nuclear energy governance by advancing the Qudrat-Ullah Nuclear Peace and Trust (Q-NPT) framework. Designed to complement existing treaties such as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards, Q-NPT integrates principles of equity, transparency, and trust to address persistent governance challenges. The framework emphasizes sustainable nuclear technology access, multilateral cooperation, and integration with global energy transition goals. Through an analysis of institutional, economic, technological, and geopolitical barriers, the study outlines actionable pathways for adoption, including legal harmonization, differentiated financial instruments, and deployment of advanced verification technologies such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and remote monitoring. A phased implementation timeline is presented, enabling adaptive learning and stakeholder engagement over short-, medium-, and long-term horizons. Regional case studies, including Serbia and Latin America, demonstrate the framework’s applicability in diverse contexts. By linking nuclear policy to broader climate, energy equity, and global security objectives, Q-NPT offers an operational and inclusive roadmap for future-ready governance. This approach contributes to the literature on energy systems transformation by situating nuclear governance within a sustainability-oriented, trust-centered paradigm. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section C: Energy Economics and Policy)
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13 pages, 2697 KiB  
Communication
Oxidation-Active Radical TTM-DMODPA for Catalysis-Free Hydrogen Peroxide Colorimetric Sensing
by Qingmei Zhong, Xiaomei Rong, Tingting Wu and Chuan Yan
Biosensors 2025, 15(8), 490; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15080490 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 284
Abstract
As a crucial reactive oxygen species, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) serves as both a physiological regulator and a pathological indicator in human systems. Its urinary concentration has emerged as a valuable biomarker for assessing metabolic disorders and renal function. While [...] Read more.
As a crucial reactive oxygen species, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) serves as both a physiological regulator and a pathological indicator in human systems. Its urinary concentration has emerged as a valuable biomarker for assessing metabolic disorders and renal function. While conventional colorimetric determination methods predominantly employ enzymatic or nanozyme catalysts, we present an innovative non-catalytic approach utilizing the redox-responsive properties of organic neutral radicals. Specifically, we designed and synthesized a novel radical TTM-DMODPA based on the tris (2,4,6-trichlorophenyl) methyl (TTM) scaffold, which exhibits remarkable optical tunability and oxidative sensitivity. This system enables dual-mode H2O2 quantification: (1) UV-vis spectrophotometry (linear range: 2.5–250 μmol/L, LOD: 1.275 μmol/L) and (2) smartphone-based visual analysis (linear range: 2.5–250 μmol/L, LOD: 3.633 μmol/L), the latter being particularly suitable for point-of-care testing. Validation studies using urine samples demonstrated excellent recovery rates (96–104%), confirming the method’s reliability for real-sample applications. Our work establishes a portable, instrument-free platform for urinary H2O2 determination, with significant potential in clinical diagnostics and environmental monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Optical and Photonic Biosensors)
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21 pages, 552 KiB  
Review
Informed Consent in Perinatal Care: Challenges and Best Practices in Obstetric and Midwifery-Led Models
by Eriketi Kokkosi, Sofoklis Stavros, Efthalia Moustakli, Saraswathi Vedam, Anastasios Potiris, Despoina Mavrogianni, Nikolaos Antonakopoulos, Periklis Panagopoulos, Peter Drakakis, Kleanthi Gourounti, Maria Iliadou and Angeliki Sarella
Nurs. Rep. 2025, 15(8), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15080273 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 295
Abstract
Respectful maternity care involves privacy, dignity, and informed choice within the process of delivery as stipulated by the World Health Organization (WHO). Informed consent is a cornerstone of patient-centered care, representing not just a formal document, but an ongoing ethical and clinical process [...] Read more.
Respectful maternity care involves privacy, dignity, and informed choice within the process of delivery as stipulated by the World Health Organization (WHO). Informed consent is a cornerstone of patient-centered care, representing not just a formal document, but an ongoing ethical and clinical process through which women are offered objective, understandable information to support autonomous, informed decision-making. This narrative review critically examines the literature on informed consent in maternity care, with particular attention to both obstetric-led and midwifery-led models of care. In addition to identifying institutional, cultural, and systemic obstacles to its successful implementation, the review examines the definition and application of informed consent in perinatal settings and evaluates its effects on women’s autonomy and satisfaction with care. Important conclusions emphasize that improving women’s experiences and minimizing needless interventions require active decision-making participation, a positive provider–patient relationship, and ongoing support from medical professionals. However, significant gaps persist between legal mandates and actual practice due to provider attitudes, systemic constraints, and sociocultural influences. Women’s experiences of consent can be more effectively understood through the use of instruments such as the Mothers’ Respect (MOR) Index and the Mothers’ Autonomy in Decision Making (MADM) Scale. To promote genuinely informed and considerate maternity care, this review emphasizes the necessity of legislative reform and improved provider education in order to close the gap between policy and practice. Full article
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27 pages, 2565 KiB  
Review
The Role of ESG in Driving Sustainable Innovation in Water Sector: From Gaps to Governance
by Gabriel Minea, Elena Simina Lakatos, Roxana Maria Druta, Alina Moldovan, Lucian Marius Lupu and Lucian Ionel Cioca
Water 2025, 17(15), 2259; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17152259 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 400
Abstract
The water sector is facing a convergence of systemic challenges generated by climate change, increasing demand, and increasingly stringent regulations, which threaten its operational and strategic sustainability. In this context, the article examines how ESG (environmental, social, governance) principles are integrated into the [...] Read more.
The water sector is facing a convergence of systemic challenges generated by climate change, increasing demand, and increasingly stringent regulations, which threaten its operational and strategic sustainability. In this context, the article examines how ESG (environmental, social, governance) principles are integrated into the governance, financing, and management of water resources, with a comparative focus on Romania and the European Union. It aims to assess the extent to which ESG practices contribute to the sustainable transformation of the water sector in the face of growing environmental and socio-economic challenges. The methodology is based on a systematic analysis of policy documents, regulatory frameworks, and ESG standards applicable to the water sector at both national (Romania) and EU levels. This study also investigates investment strategies and their alignment with the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities, enabling a comparative perspective on implementation, gaps and strengths. Findings reveal that while ESG principles are increasingly recognized across Europe, their implementation remains uneven (particularly in Romania) due to unclear standards, limited funding mechanisms, and fragmented policy coordination. ESG integration shows clear potential to foster innovation, improve governance transparency, and support long-term resilience in the water sector. These results underline the need for coherent, integrated policies and stronger institutional coordination to ensure consistent ESG adoption across Member States. Policymakers should prioritize the development of clear guidelines and supportive funding instruments to accelerate sustainable outcomes. The originality of our study lies in its comparative approach, offering an in-depth analysis of ESG integration in the water sector across different governance contexts. It provides valuable insights for advancing policy coherence, investment alignment, and sustainable water resource management at both national and European levels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Resources Management, Policy and Governance)
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18 pages, 801 KiB  
Article
The Reaction to Diagnosis Questionnaire—Sibling Version: A Preliminary Study on the Psychometric Properties
by Chiara Martis, Annalisa Levante and Flavia Lecciso
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(8), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15080147 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 241
Abstract
Background: The diagnosis of a disability in a child may significantly impact the entire family system. While existing literature has primarily focused on parental reaction to the diagnosis, little is known about how typically developing siblings process this event. Methods: This exploratory study [...] Read more.
Background: The diagnosis of a disability in a child may significantly impact the entire family system. While existing literature has primarily focused on parental reaction to the diagnosis, little is known about how typically developing siblings process this event. Methods: This exploratory study presented the preliminary psychometric properties of the Reaction to Diagnosis Questionnaire—Sibling Version, adapted from an instrument originally designed to assess parental reaction to the child’s diagnosis. Following a back-translation and adaptation process, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 623 typically developing siblings (M = 24.6 years, SD = 5.76) of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders or physical disabilities. Results: Exploratory factor analyses supported a refined 32-item questionnaire with two factors—lack of resolution versus resolution, both showing excellent internal reliability. No significant differences were found based on typically developing sibling sex, age, or type of disability of the brother/sister, while correlational analyses indicated that greater disability severity was associated with lower resolution and higher lack of resolution. Conclusions: Results suggested that the Reaction to Diagnosis Questionnaire—Sibling Version is a promising tool for assessing the reaction to the brother/sister diagnosis on behalf of the typically developing siblings. Further research is needed to confirm these results and inform intervention programs promoting well-being and adaptive family functioning. Full article
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9 pages, 1620 KiB  
Technical Note
Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy with a Piezoelectric System: How We Do It
by Riccardo Nocini, Valerio Arietti, Luca Bianconi and Luca Sacchetto
Surg. Tech. Dev. 2025, 14(3), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/std14030025 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 135
Abstract
Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a widely recognized and highly effective procedure. This surgical procedure is performed globally, with minimal modifications across different regions. Background/Objectives: The fundamental goal of DCR is to marsupialize the lacrimal sac into the nasal cavity, which helps eliminate epiphora [...] Read more.
Endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is a widely recognized and highly effective procedure. This surgical procedure is performed globally, with minimal modifications across different regions. Background/Objectives: The fundamental goal of DCR is to marsupialize the lacrimal sac into the nasal cavity, which helps eliminate epiphora (excessive tearing) and recurrent dacryocystitis (inflammation of the tear sac). With advancements in technology, new instruments are being developed to minimize risks and maximize efficacy, ultimately improving surgeon convenience, patient safety, and quality of life. One such innovation is piezosurgery, a method of bone cutting that utilizes ultrasound vibrations. Originally prevalent in oral and maxillofacial surgery, piezosurgery is now being applied in many clinical applications. Its primary advantages include the preservation of soft tissues, precise bone cutting, and the ability to work effectively in narrow spaces. Methods: This article outlines the standard technique used at our facility for performing endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) with a piezoelectric system. We describe the preoperative evaluation, intraoperative techniques, and postoperative care to present what we consider the standard procedure in our clinic. Results and Conclusions: Piezosurgery’s selective cutting prevents damage to surrounding soft tissues, making it theoretically advantageous in DCR by preserving tissue integrity. Additional case–control and multicenter studies are necessary to compare its outcomes with those of traditional osteotomy, particularly in relation to the potential increase in operative time. Full article
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